At least if you paid someone for a vote you knew that you got what you paid for!

Early in American history there was not always the secret ballot. Example: In Virginia in 1799 the voter announced his choice to an election judge at the courtyard. It was also customary for both candidates to be sitting there and they would stand up and shake hands with someone who voted for them. There was also alcohol being offered by both sides at the voting place and there were crowds gathered to listen as the votes were cast.

(Book – John Marshall – Jean Edward Smith)

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